Twelve Drummers Drumming: 'This Is Spinal Tap'

The British heavy metal band featured in director Rob Reiner's classic 1984 mockumentary (Harry Shearer, left, Christopher Guest and Michael McKean) has an unfortunate history with drummers. At various times in their history, the drummers have died by spontaneous combustion, choking on their own vomit, a gardening accident, a python attack and an explosion, plus one who just disappeared (along with the band's equipment). In total, 22 fictional and real-life drummers have played with Spinal Tap.

The British heavy metal band featured in director Rob Reiner's classic 1984 mockumentary (Harry Shearer, left, Christopher Guest and Michael McKean) has an unfortunate history with drummers. At various times in their history, the drummers have died by spontaneous combustion, choking on their own vomit, a gardening accident, a python attack and an explosion, plus one who just disappeared (along with the band's equipment). In total, 22 fictional and real-life drummers have played with Spinal Tap. (Associated Press)

The British heavy metal band featured in director Rob Reiner's classic 1984 mockumentary (Harry Shearer, left, Christopher Guest and Michael McKean) has an unfortunate history with drummers. At various times in their history, the drummers have died by spontaneous combustion, choking on their own vomit, a gardening accident, a python attack and an explosion, plus one who just disappeared (along with the band's equipment). In total, 22 fictional and real-life drummers have played with Spinal Tap.Associated Press